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Best 2nd Round Pics of the NBA draft

Throughout NBA history, several second-round picks have exceeded expectations and become valuable contributors to their teams. Here are a few examples of notable second-round picks:

Manu Ginobili (57th pick, 1999)

Manu Ginobili, selected by the San Antonio Spurs with the 57th overall pick in the 1999 NBA Draft, had a highly successful career. He became an integral part of the Spurs’ championship teams, earning multiple All-Star selections and Sixth Man of the Year honors.

Draymond Green (35th pick, 2012)

Draymond Green, selected by the Golden State Warriors with the 35th overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, played a pivotal role in the Warriors’ championship runs. He became a versatile and elite defender, earning All-Star selections and being named the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year.

Marc Gasol (48th pick, 2007)

Marc Gasol, drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers with the 48th overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft, had a successful career as a skilled big man. He played a vital role in the Memphis Grizzlies’ success and was named the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2013.

Isaiah Thomas (60th pick, 2011)

Isaiah Thomas, selected by the Sacramento Kings with the 60th and final pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, defied expectations and became a dynamic scoring guard. Thomas earned All-Star honors and had several highly productive seasons, including leading the league in fourth-quarter scoring.

Nikola Jokic (41st pick, 2014)

Nikola Jokic, selected by the Denver Nuggets with the 41st overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, has developed into one of the league’s premier centers. He has earned multiple All-Star selections and was named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player in 2021.

Khris Middleton (39th pick, 2012)

Khris Middleton, drafted by the Detroit Pistons with the 39th overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, blossomed into an All-Star caliber player with the Milwaukee Bucks. He played a crucial role in the Bucks’ championship run in 2021.

Gilbert Arenas (30th pick, 2001)

Gilbert Arenas, selected by the Golden State Warriors with the 30th overall pick in the 2001 NBA Draft, became one of the league’s most dynamic scorers during his prime. Arenas earned three All-Star selections and had several seasons where he averaged over 25 points per game.

Monta Ellis (40th pick, 2005)

Monta Ellis, drafted by the Golden State Warriors with the 40th overall pick in the 2005 NBA Draft, had a productive career as a scoring guard. He had several seasons where he averaged over 20 points per game and was known for his explosive scoring ability.

Dražen Petrović (60th pick, 1986)

Dražen Petrović, selected by the Portland Trail Blazers with the 60th and final pick in the 1986 NBA Draft, had a storied career as one of the greatest European basketball players. Petrović’s skills and shooting prowess earned him All-Star honors, and he was a key contributor to the success of the Croatian national team.

Dennis Johnson (29th pick, 1976)

Dennis Johnson, drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics with the 29th overall pick in the 1976 NBA Draft, had a stellar career as a versatile guard. Johnson was a five-time All-Star, a three-time NBA champion, and was known for his defensive prowess and clutch performances.

DeAndre Jordan (35th pick, 2008)

DeAndre Jordan, selected by the Los Angeles Clippers with the 35th overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft, became one of the league’s premier rebounders and shot-blockers. Jordan was a two-time NBA rebounding leader and earned All-NBA and All-Defensive Team honors.

Danny Green (46th pick, 2009)

Danny Green, drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers with the 46th overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft, developed into a highly reliable three-and-D player. Green played a key role in multiple NBA championship teams, showcasing his sharpshooting and defensive abilities.

Goran Dragić (45th pick, 2008)

Goran Dragić, selected by the San Antonio Spurs with the 45th overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft, has had a successful career as a skilled and crafty point guard. Dragić earned an All-Star selection and was instrumental in leading the Miami Heat to the NBA Finals in 2020.

These examples highlight the impact that second-round picks can make in the NBA. While they may be selected later in the draft, these players have proven that hard work, determination, and skill can lead to successful careers and significant contributions to their teams.